Expert Video - What is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)?

Learn what chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is, how it starts, and how it affects your lung function from expert Dr. Jerry Krishnan of the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. Krishnan also explains how long it takes to develop COPD, and how many people may have COPD without even knowing it. Learn what causes COPD, when it can be genetic, and how your doctor can help you explore options for breathing better.

Click here to take our SURVEY
Your feedback is important to us! We will use your feedback to develop future areas of content about oxygen therapy which will help other patients, caregivers and families.

To what extent do you agree with the following statement?
Please rate between 1 and 5, with 1 being 'strongly disagree' and 5 being 'strongly agree'.

The content was clear and easy to understand
Disagree Agree

The content will help conversations with my healthcare professional
Disagree Agree

Expert Videos

1. What is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)?

2. Why might someone with COPD need oxygen therapy?

3. How does someone with COPD know if their oxygen therapy is “working” for them?

4. What signs or symptoms should someone with COPD monitor? What might trigger calling for help?

Other Modules:

Using Your Stationary Oxygen Concentrator

Using Your Portable Oxygen Concentrator

Using Oxygen Tanks

Using Oxygen Safely

Understanding Oxygen Therapy

Oxygen Therapy and ILD

Oxygen Therapy After Hospitalization

Oxygen Therapy and Healthy Living

This educational activity has been developed by American Thoracic Society, COPD Foundation and Mechanisms in Medicine Inc.

Disclaimer: The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor about any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The visuals provided are meant to be representations only. No specific brand of oxygen equipment is being promoted or endorsed.

This activity is supported by educational grants from:
Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and the Gawlicki Family Foundation

Thank you to the funders of You And Oxygen Therapy. All content is developed independently by the American Thoracic Society, COPD Foundation, and Mechanisms in Medicine Inc. in collaboration with an Expert Faculty group; funders are allowed no influence on the content of You And Oxygen Therapy.

This website is part of the Animated Patient™ series developed by Mechanisms in Medicine Inc., to provide highly visual formats of learning for patients to improve their understanding, make informed decisions, and partner with their healthcare professionals for optimal outcomes.